Being the wife of a busy musician can be rigorous — I often spend Sundays alone while he’s with the Tabernacle Choir or at a fireside. But his intense schedule is also rewarding and gives me perspective on the things that truly matter, time and time again.

Alex and Julie Boye about to watch fireworks. (Provided by Julie Boye)

I became teary-eyed when I read your article in the Deseret News. I have no idea why I've always been so interested in the royal family and am always so sad when I read stories about them in the news. I always think, "I wish they had the gospel in their lives. What a healing effect it could have on the countries of my ancestry if the royal family would accept these truths." So, thank you! Thank you for doing exactly what I've always dreamed of doing for them, and thank you for providing me a "real person" story to share with my boys on how to have true courage to follow the Spirit, even when it's scary. You are a very brave man.

I know Alex didn't envision the long-term effects of his bold act that day. He didn't anticipate such positive responses just by accepting the challenge of a ward mission leader. One reader of the article from Mount Pleasant, Utah, wrote:

Well, that certainly brought some tears of joy. What courage and desire was shown by Alex risking all to give the greatest gift you could give to someone of his stature. I do believe someday Prince Charles will read that book and the spirit will take over and bless his heart and life more than anything else could. If only more of our youth had that kind of desire and courage to risk something like the Book of Mormon.

Did I mention I spend many nights alone? It can be challenging, but his testimony and talent bless so many people and I’m reminded that his influence for good was meant to be broad. The frustrations never last for long when we read comments like the following, from Christmas Carole from Las Cruces, N.M.:

Alex and Julie Boye in Lake Powell. (Provided by Julie Boye)

This story brought a huge smile to my face! This goes to show that when the spirit is behind us, what need we fear? If something is Father's will then it can be accomplished — kings, presidents, or dictators aside. The key is humility and worthiness that Alex must have had for this all to have happened. I'm very proud of you, hon. You were humble enough to be in tune and go with the flow of the spirit to put self aside and do what was asked of you — who knows what wonderful repercussions will come from this? Way to go, Brother Alex!

Geri Gibbs wrote to us from Woodland, Utah, and I couldn't help but be proud when I read it:

Your story about giving a Book of Mormon was so inspiring to me that I've committed to myself to carry one with me in my purse and car all the time so I can be prepared when the opportunity arises. Thank you for your courage. And, thank your ward mission leader, whose challenge may actually go around the world!

Julie and Alex Boye on the beach. (Provided by Julie Boye)

So maybe I eat ice cream and Top Ramen while he’s eating hors d’oeuvre and steak in the green room before a big show. And I may be wiping noses and rear ends while he’s being chauffeured around the world in high-class cars. Everything is worth it in the end when I get to witness the fruits of his labors — and mine. The rewards far outweigh the sacrifices and I’m proud of him for answering the many calls to serve.

Besides, I think mac and cheese is delicious.

Julie Boye is a graduate of the University of Utah and mother of two. Her email is jepps143@hotmail.com.